Calle Jarnkrok Could Still Play a Crucial Role for the Maple Leafs - Is That Why Brad Treliving Kept Him?
Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
The Maple Leafs have yet to trade Calle Jarnkrok, and according to analyst Jeremy Tingly, it could be due to his potential role on the top line with Auston Matthews.
With his name being tossed about in trade rumors since the start of the offseason, veteran forward Calle Jarnkrok is still firmly on the roster with nothing really changing that barring something unexpected.
There were some concerns that he might be on the downswing given his age and recent sports hernia surgery, though we could consider last year a wash and he never really got into the swing of things by the time the postseason rolled around.
But with a full season ahead of him, and questions where he fits; it's strange why Brad Treliving hasn't found one potential buyer. Though perhaps, he doesn't wanna get rid of him at all.
Why Jarnkrok May Still Be Key to Toronto's Top Line
According to an article from Maple Leafs analyst Jeremy Tingly and what a successful season might be for Jarnkrok, he boldly stated that Jarnkrok's main goal this year should be top line minutes; and explains why:
With Mitch Marner departing, Jarnkrok has a golden opportunity to play alongside Matthew Knies and Auston Matthews.
Jarnkrok isn't a complete stranger to Matthews' wing, as he's seen moments throughout his Leafs' tenure on the top line, and with his speed, work ethic, and fast release, has produced in the past.
Jarnkrok will have to fend off Max Domi, who is likely to get a serious look on the top line as well. Both players are versatile to play either wing or down the middle, which makes them valuable to Berube, but this will be one of the more entertaining internal competitions at training camp.
Jarnkrok isn't a complete stranger to Matthews' wing, as he's seen moments throughout his Leafs' tenure on the top line, and with his speed, work ethic, and fast release, has produced in the past.
Jarnkrok will have to fend off Max Domi, who is likely to get a serious look on the top line as well. Both players are versatile to play either wing or down the middle, which makes them valuable to Berube, but this will be one of the more entertaining internal competitions at training camp.
Jarnkrok's name never really popped up much when it came to who slots in the top-six but it makes sense. He's defensively sound, is good enough to make a pass to Matthews or Knies, and compared to Domi, is much more willing to get into the dirtier areas of the game.
Calle Jarnkrok's Able To Push Top Line To Success
You have to understand that Jarnkrok played in 19 games last season (7 points) after surgery, and it took him a long time get his feet back under him. But when he's been here and playing, he's been solid.
Debuting with a 20-goal season upon arrival, there's proof in the pudding that Jarnkrok can provide help for Matthews and Knies on offense, and while he's not a lightning bolt, is able to get back quick enough to help out defensively.
There is also proven history with Domi alongside Matthews, and Berube may feel a bit more comfortable with him there instead; plus there's the potential Matias Maccelli earns that role as well.
Training camp is going to be a huge indicator of what Craig Berube decides to do, and don't be surprised if we see Jarnkrok crack the top line come the preseason.
He may as well figure out his lineup tinkering now, and hopefully come up with something that leads to season-long success.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 31 | 1267 ANSWERS Calle Jarnkrok Could Still Play a Crucial Role for the Maple Leafs - Is That Why Brad Treliving Kept Him? Should Toronto keep or trade Calle Jarnkrok? | ||
| Keep | 396 | 31.3 % |
| Trade | 871 | 68.7 % |
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